Manish Pandey is ready for the challenge

Following his impressive run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy limited overs tournament, Manish Pandey had mixed feelings after being included in the Team India ODI squad for the five-match ODI series against Australia, starting January 12, Down Under.

The 26-year-old Karnataka batsman, who made his India debut against Zimbabwe in July this year, is well prepared for the challenges against the mighty Australians. “I had a good experience playing (the first time) and I will take that experience for this important tour. If I get an opportunity to play, I will certainly make use of it. I’m ready for any challenges,” said the confident lad.

With Karnataka knocked out of the Ranji Trophy and the Vijay Hazare on Friday, the Kolkata Knight Riders batsman is still disappointed with the exit. “We are all disappointed not having made the knockout stage in both the tournaments. But we can’t keep thinking about it and have to look forward to the future. There are mixed feelings right now,” he stated.

With an eye on the World T20 next year in India, Pandey wants to create an impact. “As I said, I will look to perform given an opportunity and a good performance here will brighten my chances for the World Cup (T20),” he said.